Nursing Law & Order provides commentary on legal issues facing nurses. This is not legal advice.

July 24, 2009

I have been charged with a felony. What are my next steps?

I have been asked this question three times this month. Being charged with a felony is serious!!!!

If you are a nursing student, NCLEX-Applicant, RN, LPN, or a APRN and you have been indicted or charged with a felony, consider retaining a criminal defense attorney with significant experience practicing before the court in the jurisdiction where your case is pending. You can contact your local Bar association for an attorney referral or you can search online for a criminal defense attorney. You can also contact your State Nurses Association or the Center for American Nurses. www.centerforamericannurses.org.

Don't try to represent yourself in a criminal case. Retain a private attorney and if you cannot afford a private attorney, then try legal aid.

You also need to speak with a nurse license defense attorney ASAP. Don't wait until the criminal case is resolved. Talk to a nurse license defense attorney who practices before your State Nursing Board ASAP.